Philippine Coast Guard allows hijab in uniform of female Muslim personnel

Female Muslim personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) are now allowed to wear hijab in their official uniform.

The new policy allowing hijab in the uniform of female Muslim PCG personnel is being implemented since January 25, 2022, the coast guard said Thursday.

'Hijab' is an Arabic word that means 'being covered.' Islam requires Muslim women to cover themselves in public and in the presence of people who are not 'mahram,' referring to family members or persons who are allowed to see Muslim women without cover.

Members of the Muslim community in the PCG are hoping that the inclusion of the hijab in the official PCG uniform will encourage more Muslim women to join the coast guard. —KBK, GMA News